Featured Image Credit: X/@SpaceForceDoD
The US Space Force has shared a mind blowing image from a top secret space plane for the first time in history.
The incredibly rare image marks the first time that a photo has been shared from the secretive spacecraft.
The photo was taken during a recent top secret mission and people are now able to catch a glimpse of how Earth looks from the spaceship, which is called spacecraft X-37B.
Taking to X, formerly Twitter, the United States Space Force account wrote in a post: “An X-37B onboard camera, used to ensure the health and safety of the vehicle, captures an image of Earth while conducting experiments in HEO in 2024.The X-37B executed a series of first-of-kind maneuvers, called aerobraking, to safely change its orbit using minimal fuel.”
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Along with a post, it shared the image which shows part of the plane and Earth in the middle, with the darkness of space behind it.
It is safe to say that people were shocked by the image, with many taking to the X comment section to share their reactions.
One user wrote: “WE HAVE SPACE PLANES?!”
Another said: “Approximately 13k-18k miles from Earth based on image resolution and comparative analysis of photos.”
A third commented: “Wow, you guys went way way way way beyond the orbit of the space station.
“Wish we could have a 24/7 webcam at that distance.”
A fourth said: “This is an incredibly high orbit. The X-37 space plane fleet continues to amaze!”
And a fifth person added: “These space force kids have the coolest toys.”
The space plane is used for various missions, some of which being secretive, which includes using the spacecraft as an orbital test platform.
During its last mission, the X-37B set a new endurance record after spending 908 days in orbit, according to Boeing.
Prior to this, the spacecraft had spent a total of 780 consecutive days in orbit.
When returning to Earth, the space plane will land on the former space shuttle runway at the NASA Kennedy Space Center.
The runway is now known as the Launch and Landing Facility.
Although it's strictly secret when the plane is scheduled to land, locals usually have a pretty good indicator on when X-37B is making its return to Earth.
This is because the loud sonic booms that it makes when it lands can be heard by residents of the Florida Space Coast.
